The Cipher: Locks and Keys

The sun rose over the city, casting warm rays of light through the window and onto Lockey's face. He stirred, waking up to a new day filled with both promise and uncertainty. After taking a few moments to gather his thoughts, Lockey got out of bed and began his morning routine.

As he stepped outside and made his way to school, Lockey couldn't help but notice the subtle changes in the world around him. Each day seemed to bring new discoveries and challenges, pushing him to grow and adapt in ways he never could have imagined.

Upon arriving at school, Lockey meets Rina, Baek, Isabella, and Marco.

He noticed Rina, Baek, Isabella, and Marco huddled together, engaged in a hushed conversation. As he approached the group, he could sense an air of excitement and intrigue surrounding them.

"What are you guys talking about?" Lockey asked, genuinely curious about the topic that had captured their attention.

Marco looked up, meeting Lockey's gaze, before explaining, "We were discussing the idea of forming a cult organisation."

Lockey's brow furrowed in confusion. "Do you even know what a cult organisation is?" he questioned, his tone laced with concern.

Rina and Marco exchanged glances before nodding in unison. "We've been doing some research," Rina admitted. "It seems that many people associated with cult organisations possess great power due to their keys and locks."

Marco chimed in, "We thought it could be a way for us to harness our abilities and protect one another from potential threats."

Lockey listened intently, his suspicion of cult organisations growing as they continued to discuss the subject. "What made you guys think about that?" he asked, directing his question primarily at Rina, who had apparently initiated the conversation.

"It was Rina's idea, to be honest," Marco confessed. "And I felt it was a good one."

Lockey's gaze shifted to Rina, who offered a sheepish smile in response. "I just thought it would be a way for us to stay connected and help each other grow," she explained. "But I want to hear your thoughts on it too, Lockey."

Lockey sighed, considering their proposal. "I'm still not sure about this whole cult organisation thing," he admitted, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "It seems like there could be some dangerous consequences, and I'm not convinced it's the best way for us to harness our powers."

They exchanged glances, disappointment evident on their faces. However, they respected Lockey's opinion and knew that his concerns were valid.

"We don't have to make a decision right now," Marco reassured them. "Let's keep discussing it and exploring other options as well."

As the school day came to an end, Lockey found himself lost in thought while making his way home. The discussion about forming a cult organisation earlier in the day still lingered in his mind. "It is suspicious that they would bring up such a topic," he mused, his eyes narrowing in contemplation. "When researching what the World Cyphone Management Organisation does, I first came across cult organisations. From what I read, the WCM captured them because they used their powers to create imbalance in society, mostly against humans without power."

He paused, recalling the details of his research. "The WCM described them as dangerous to society, as they pose a threat to humanity." Lockey's eyes darted back and forth, reflecting his deep contemplation. "Why would they want to form such an organisation?"

Nearing his house, Lockey couldn't help but notice the signs of a break-in. Sensing the intruder still nearby, he decided to pursue them. As he turned the corner, he spotted a man at the bus stop, suspiciously dressed in black with a hood and a nose mask.

Lockey approached the man, tapping him on the shoulder. "You can't fool me by hiding your face. In fact, you look more suspicious this way," he said, his voice tinged with suspicion.

The intruder slowly turned his face and removed the nose mask, revealing deep purple hair and a deceiving smile. "I didn't expect you would notice," he said with a grin.

"What do you want from me? Where are you from?" Lockey asked, his tone firm and unwavering.

"Relax, buddy," the man said, placing a hand on Lockey's shoulder.

Lockey, in no mood for jokes, quickly removed the man's hand. Seeing Lockey's resolve, the intruder realised he was not one for games. "I am a member of the WCM. I just came for an investigation. Are you happy now?" he explained.

Lockey sensed that the man hadn't fully disclosed his purpose. "What are you investigating for?" he asked, his eyes locked onto the intruder.

"I see, so you haven't noticed," the man replied cryptically.

Lockey's brow furrowed, "Noticed what?" he asked, his gaze intensifying as he searched for answers.

The man sighed, realising he had to reveal more information. "Guess I have no choice. Your house is emitting a strange energy, so I decided to investigate what you're keeping in your house, but couldn't find anything."

Changing the subject, the intruder introduced himself. "Anyway, I'm Pinnochi. You may not know me, but your friends do. And before I forget, Lee told me to greet you," he said with a smile as he prepared to leave. "See ya."

Upon returning home, Lockey cautiously entered his house, his senses on high alert. First, he meticulously scanned his surroundings for any signs of surveillance, such as hidden cameras or listening devices. His suspicion of the WCM and their investigation into his life had left him wary and vigilant.

Lockey's thoughts raced as he searched. I really want to check if the book is still there, but I feel like I'm being watched, he mused silently, his mind churning with uncertainty.

Realising he couldn't risk exposing the book's hiding place, Lockey decided to reach out to Lee for answers. He knew he couldn't keep this up forever. Since Lee works at WCM, I may at least ask some questions about the investigation, he thought.

Lockey found himself at a quaint restaurant, seated by the window as he anxiously awaited Lee's arrival. Soon enough, Lee spotted Lockey and made his way over. "Hey Lockey, I had to rush over when I heard you needed me," he said, noticeably altering his voice.

"Yes, how is your work going?" Lockey asked, acknowledging Lee's altered tone with a nod.

"It's going well, to be honest," Lee replied with a smile.

"In order not to waste your time, I'll just go straight to the point," Lockey began. Before he could continue, Lee scribbled a message on a piece of paper: Your clothes have a mic on them. Lee then proceeded to locate and remove the microphone from Lockey's attire, swiftly destroying it.

"So that's why you changed your voice tone," Lockey observed.

Lee nodded. "You may continue; this way, our conversation can't be tapped."

Lockey leaned in, his voice low. "Why were the WCM investigating my place?"

Lee's expression grew serious. "They simply believe that you possess something old, or maybe ancient. I won't ask what it is."

Lockey's brow furrowed, not particularly surprised by the revelation. "I see," he muttered, questioning if it could be the mysterious book or the enigmatic card.

Amused by the WCM's suspicions, Lockey pressed on. "One more thing: could you tell me more about cult organisations?"

Lee considered the question. "From what I know, they're like the bad guys in a comic. They aim to prove their superiority over normal humans by going to extreme lengths, such as assault or killing. That's what the WCM mostly says about them."

Lockey's lips curled into a satisfied smirk. "I see; it's the same as the research I did." He then lowered his voice, asking, "What happens if I join or form a cult organisation?"

Lee's gaze intensified. "Then the WCM would be more cautious of you, and their suspicion would greatly increase. I advise you not to take such action. If you want to, you must first address the suspicion of the WCM's higher members."

Lockey nodded, feeling content with Lee's response. "That would be all. Nice seeing your face again, and thanks for the info."

Lee smiled warmly, "Anytime, Lockey. Remember, be cautious and keep your secrets close. We never know who's watching."